Not all sneakers are created equal. To maximize your workouts, it's actually better to have shoes specifically designed with one activity in mind. This helps you perform better while working out, and it minimizes your chances of tearing your body in half. Here are 10 of the best.
AGILITY DRILLS
Your knees and ankles feel the brunt of agility drills, so you want a shoe that keeps everything aligned. Adidas's Crazy Train shoes are lightweight, and use a heel counter (that white part) to keep your foot stable while your body moves quickly during drills.
Crazy Train Pro by Adidas, adidas.com
JUMP-HEAVY SETS
The flexibility and cushion of these Nikes will keep your ankles and knees protected from the landing on tough jumps.
Train Prime Iron Dual Fusion by Nike, nike.com
SPRINTS
For quick sprints, opt for something that won't weigh you down. New Balance and sock brand Stance created this crazy lightweight shoe, perfect for speedy moves.
Fuelcore Sonic by New Balance x Stance, newbalance.com
LONG DISTANCE RUNS
If you're partial to long-distance runs, don't cheat your way out of a good sneaker. Asics—master brand of marathon sneakers—uses specific technologies for each part of the shoe (seriously, everything from the midsole foam to the heel clutching system) to make sure your foot stays stable throughout a long run.
Gel Kayano by Asics, asics.com
BOXING
York Athletics sneakers were designed to be in a ring, whether you're sparring or shadowboxing in your basement. They're light, durable, and the height will keep your ankle from rolling.
The Henry Mid by York Athletics, yorkathleticsmfg.com
HIIT
For HIIT workouts, you need a shoe with a versatile response. Nike's Metcon3 was designed for just that, using a flexible forefoot and textured rubber on the midfoot to give you great traction during ropes or wall exercises.
Metcon3 by Nike, nike.com
CROSSFIT
Reebok has been dominating the Crossfit sneaker space, crafting shoes that enhance every piece of your WOD. They have a tight, barefoot feel—good for lifts—but aren't too stiff for suicides.
Crossfit Nano by Reebok, reebok.com
SHORT RUNS
APLs are one of the sleekest sneakers out right now, and they're great for quick, neutral runs.
Techloom by APL, athleticpropulsionlabs.com
CYCLING
If spinning is your game, it's worth investing in a pair of your own shoes. Shimano makes the sturdiest pair, with a closure system that will make your foot secure. They're both SPD and SPD-SL cleat compatible.
Bike Shoes by Shimano, rei.com
LIFTING
Lifting heavy in a running shoe is a recipe for bad form—they're usually too supportive for something like a deadlift or power clean. Look for a shoe with minimal drop (from the front to back of your foot) to keep your form in check.
Adipower Weightlifting Shoes by Adidas, adidas.com
This story originally appeared on Esquire.com.
* Minor edits have been made by the Esquiremag.ph editors.